In deep love and sorrow we mark the passing of Chris Boatman in Victoria, BC: cherished partner, grandfather, father, brother, cousin and friend.
Chris is survived by his partner Kathleen, his children Sarah (Frédéric) and James, and his grand-daughters Charlotte, Isabelle, Francesca and Alexandra; his sister Sheila (Malcolm) as well as extended family in England, Northern Ireland and Australia. He was predeceased by his first wife Jackie.
Chris was born on 16 August 1942 in Ballymoney, Northern Ireland. Raised in England, he earned a civil engineering degree in 1963 at the University of London, traveling to Canada in 1964. Engineering work was plentiful: in 1971 he embarked on a 21-year career with BC Hydro.
In 1969 Chris and Jackie Hayes were married in England and she joined him in BC, raising their daughter Sarah and son James in Hudson's Hope and Vancouver.
Rugby, soccer and golf - which he played at a high amateur level - were life-long passions that brought Chris circles of friends through the Vancouver Rowing Club, Quilchena Golf Club and Victoria Golf Club.
Chris' roles at BC Hydro included construction and project management, and leadership in the development of Power Smart.
New chapters began for Chris when he met Kathleen in 1990, left BC Hydro in 1992 and moved to Victoria in 1997. His retirement years were focused on sailing, golf at home and overseas, and the new generation, first in Kathleen's family, and then, to his lasting delight, his own.
To those who knew and loved him, Chris was an inspiration and a fine example. He leaves a remarkable, extensive legacy. He did us all proud.
The family would like to thank Chris' GP Dr David Harrison and his team for years of creative and conscientious care.
In lieu of flowers, a donation could be made in Chris' name to KidSport BC.
Celebration of Life, Saturday, April 11, 2026, 2:00pm-5:00pm at the Victoria Golf Club, 1110 Beach Drive, Victoria, BC V8S 2M9.
Condolences may be offered to the family at
www.mccallgardens.com.
Published by Victoria Times Colonist from Mar. 14 to Mar. 16, 2026.